KISSIMMEE, Fla. — There could soon be fewer sign twirlers and cold air balloons that advertise businesses if Kissimmee leaders don’t keep one of their ordinances on the books.
For the past eight years Beverly Vics, who owns Liberty Tax Service, has paid the city almost $100 every tax season to keep a balloon up in front of her business.
She said since more than half her business is done during tax time, it’s worth every penny.
“We have people come in and say ‘I love your balloon, we came in because we saw your balloon,’ she said.
Vics has the permit from the city hanging right next to the front door, but in order to keep the balloon up through the whole tax season she needs two permits.
Last year the city made more than $300 issuing special permits for cold air balloons and sign holders, but the city code that allows Lady Liberty to stay up during most of the tax season will expire if the city doesn't renew it before the end of the month.
Since the city says its economy still hasn't fully recovered, officials could still keep it on the books, but that's up to commissioners.
City numbers show nearly 500 permits were issued since the ordinance took effect in 2008.
Leaders will discuss the matter at Tuesday night’s council meeting.
WFTV
